These 29 Indian Recipes Helped When I Didn’t Want To Spend Again

There are days when your wallet stares back at you like, “Don’t even think about it.” That’s where these 29 Indian recipes came in clutch. They kept things going without another swipe or tap. Honestly, they had my back more than my budget ever has.

A plate of Chilli Chicken with chunks of red peppers, drizzled in a dark sauce, garnished with green onions. — Chilli Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Cabbage Potato Curry

Sometimes, you just need something quick and easy. Cabbage Potato Curry is a perfect choice when you’re low on time and ingredients. It’s simple to make and always hits the spot. If you want something fulfilling without much effort, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Potato Curry

Balti Chicken

Balti Chicken is the kind of dish that adds a little excitement to your meal. With a mix of spices and a rich sauce, it’s sure to bring flavor to the table. This recipe doesn’t take long and still makes you feel like you’ve put in the work. It’s a go-to when you want something hearty.
Get the Recipe: Balti Chicken

Grilled Whole Cauliflower

Whole roasted cauliflower with a golden-brown crust, garnished with fresh herbs, displayed up-close. — Grilled Whole Cauliflower. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Looking for something different? Grilled Whole Cauliflower is a simple dish that’s both tasty and healthy. It’s a great way to switch up your usual meals. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to make, yet it delivers on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Whole Cauliflower

Ridge Gourd Moong Dal

Ridge Gourd Moong Dal is a great option when you want a light and nutritious meal. It’s simple, filling, and doesn’t take too much time to make. The combination of dal and ridge gourd adds a unique twist. Perfect when you need something quick but fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Ridge Gourd Moong Dal

Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot

If you’re craving fresh paneer, Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot is a great solution. The Instant Pot makes it super easy, so you don’t need to fuss around. It’s a game-changer when you want paneer without all the hassle. Plus, you can use it in various dishes after.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Paneer in Instant Pot

Bengali Fish Curry

Bengali Fish Curry packs a punch without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s a quick dish that brings loads of flavor with just a few simple steps. Perfect for a filling meal when you don’t have much time. A go-to when you’re craving something different.
Get the Recipe: Bengali Fish Curry

Rava Idli Recipe

A row of idli, a traditional south indian steamed rice cake, served on a green banana leaf. — Rava Idli Recipe. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

When you want a light, fluffy breakfast, Rava Idli Recipe is the way to go. It’s fast to make and doesn’t require any special ingredients. This dish is perfect for mornings when you need something comforting. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up.
Get the Recipe: Rava Idli Recipe

Coconut Rice in Instant Pot

A bowl of cooked white rice garnished with cashews, curry leaves, and dried red chilies, displayed on a rustic table setting. — Coconut Rice in Instant Pot. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Coconut Rice in Instant Pot is a convenient dish that combines a few ingredients into a fulfilling meal. It’s a great option when you want something filling without much work. Just pop everything into the Instant Pot, and you're good to go. Perfect as a side dish or even a main.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Rice in Instant Pot

Eggless Banana Pancakes

Stack of bananapancakes with a pat of butter on top, served on a plate. — Eggless Banana Pancakes. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

These pancakes are a great choice for a quick, easy breakfast. You can whip them up without the need for eggs, making it simple to make at any time. Eggless Banana Pancakes are light and fluffy, so they hit the spot without being too heavy. Ideal when you want pancakes without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Banana Pancakes

Black Chickpea Sundal/Kadlekalu Usli

A bowl of Kadlekalu Usli salad garnished with coconut and cilantro, served on a green tablecloth. — Black Chickpea Sundal/Kadlekalu Usli. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

If you're in the mood for something different, try Black Chickpea Sundal/Kadlekalu Usli. It’s an easy dish that’s perfect for any time of day. The black chickpeas bring a hearty texture while still keeping things simple. Great for when you want a quick snack or side.
Get the Recipe: Black Chickpea Sundal/Kadlekalu Usli

Kadai Paneer

Kadai Paneer brings a burst of flavor with minimal effort. It’s the go-to dish when you need something comforting and flavorful. Paneer cooked in a rich, spiced sauce is always a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for when you want something that feels special but isn’t too complicated.
Get the Recipe: Kadai Paneer

Adai Dosa

A crispy, folded masala dosa served on a black plate with a side of coconut chutney. — Adai Dosa. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Looking for a hearty breakfast? Adai Dosa is the answer. It’s packed with protein and flavor, making it a great start to the day. The crispy dosa with a filling is sure to fill you up. Easy to make and filling when you need something quick.
Get the Recipe: Adai Dosa

Palak Paneer Stir Fry

This stir fry is a simple yet flavorful dish. It’s a great way to eat your greens without spending too much time. With just a few ingredients, it delivers a punch of flavor.Palak Paneer Stir Fry is perfect for a quick, light meal that still feels fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Palak Paneer Stir Fry

Hakka Noodles

Hakka Noodles are a quick and easy solution when you're craving something savory. It’s an adaptable dish you can tweak based on what you have. You can make it as simple or as complex as you like. A great go-to for a quick meal that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Hakka Noodles

Chilli Paneer

Craving something with a bit of heat? Chilli Paneer is your answer. It’s a perfect mix of spice and savory goodness, ready in no time. A fantastic dish when you’re in the mood for something bold. Ideal for when you want a quick snack or appetizer that packs a punch.
Get the Recipe: Chilli Paneer

Tomato Rice

Tomato Rice is a go-to when you want something quick and comforting. It’s simple, easy to make, and packed with flavor. It pairs well with almost anything, making it versatile. This is the kind of meal that saves you when you just can't be bothered to cook something fancy.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Rice

Instant Pot Beetroot Palya

A bowl of diced Beetroot Palya garnished with herbs and sprinkled with salt, served on a dark textured background. — Instant Pot Beetroot Palya. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

When you need something simple but filling, Instant Pot Beetroot Palya comes through. It’s an easy way to get a hearty side dish with minimal effort. The Instant Pot makes it a breeze to prepare, so you’ll have it ready in no time. It’s perfect for when you want to make a meal without too much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beetroot Palya

Gobi Manchurian

Looking for a quick fix that packs some punch? Gobi Manchurian is the answer. It’s a crisp, fulfilling dish that doesn’t take much to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a side or a main, it’s ready when you need it.
Get the Recipe: Gobi Manchurian

Instant Pot Upma

A bowl of colorful upma, an indian dish made with rice and lentils, garnished with cashews and herbs. — Instant Pot Upma. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Instant Pot Upma is a simple, no-fuss dish that works for any time of day. The Instant Pot makes the process quick, with the perfect texture every time. It’s an easy, filling meal when you don’t want to think about cooking. Whether it's breakfast or dinner, it’s a solid choice.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Upma

Ragi Pancakes

Need something light yet filling? Ragi Pancakes are your go-to. They’re simple to whip up and packed with just the right texture. Great for a quick meal that doesn’t feel like a chore to make.
Get the Recipe: Ragi Pancakes

Air Fryer Eggplant

If you're looking to get crispy without the mess, try Air Fryer Eggplant. It’s a quick, less greasy way to enjoy your favorite veggie. Perfect when you want something healthy but don’t feel like deep frying. It cooks in no time and delivers the crunch you want.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant

Instant Pot Dalia Khichdi

Dalia Khichdi served in a dark blue bowl with visible chunks of vegetables and spices. — Instant Pot Dalia Khichdi. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Instant Pot Dalia Khichdi makes mealtime effortless. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s filling, nutritious, and easy to prepare. You can throw everything in the Instant Pot and let it do the work for you. Perfect when you need something warm and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Dalia Khichdi

Curried Green Bean Casserole

Baked casserole with green beans and crispy fried onions on top. — Curried Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

When you're craving something hearty but don’t want to spend hours cooking, Curried Green Bean Casserole is your best bet. It’s a comforting, rich dish that’s simple yet fulfilling. The curry flavor kicks things up a notch without being overwhelming. Perfect for any day when you want a filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Curried Green Bean Casserole

Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza

Slices of Tandori Paneer Naan Pizza with tofu, red onions, tomatoes, and drizzled with green sauce on a black surface. — Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

If you’re in the mood for a fusion dish, Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza is the way to go. It combines your favorite naan with the rich, smoky flavor of tandoori. Easy to make and satisfying without being too complicated. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner when you're feeling adventurous.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza

Spinach Lamb Kofta Curry

Lamb and spinach curry served with naan. — Spinach Lamb Kofta Curry. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

For something hearty yet rich, Spinach Lamb Kofta Curry hits the spot. It’s a deliciously spiced curry that will fill you up without taking hours to prepare. The lamb koftas add just the right texture and flavor. Great when you’re craving something with a little extra substance.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Lamb Kofta Curry

Tandoori Turkey

When you want something different, Tandoori Turkey is a fun option. The tandoori flavor adds a smoky kick to the turkey, making it unique. It’s a great alternative for when you want something beyond the usual. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make with a big payoff.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Turkey

Aloo Tikki Burger

If you’re craving something with a twist, Aloo Tikki Burger is your answer. It’s the perfect vegetarian option when you’re craving a burger but want to keep it light. The crispy potato patty delivers all the crunch you want without the heaviness. A great way to enjoy a burger without the beef.
Get the Recipe: Aloo Tikki Burger

Bread Upma

Bread Upma is a quick, no-fuss breakfast or snack that won’t leave you hungry. You can use whatever bread you have, and it turns out just right every time. It’s an easy meal when you want something filling but aren’t in the mood to cook much. It’s comfort food at its simplest.
Get the Recipe: Bread Upma

Chilli Chicken

For when you want something with a little heat, Chilli Chicken is perfect. It’s a quick and satisfying dish that you can whip up in no time. The spices bring it to life without being too intense. Great for those days when you need something a bit bolder.
Get the Recipe: Chilli Chicken